City and an unnamed J-League club have made offers for the 23-year-old, who was dropped from coach Tony Walmsley’s squad last week and appears to be on the outer at the struggling Mariners.

Owner Mike Charlesworth has been discussing terms with the EPL side, who have already taken on former Brisbane star Luke Brattan this year.

Caceres has a buyout clause, which cashed-up City would easily pay for.

However, he does not have a European passport, having Uruguayan parents.

Walmsley said he would be sad to see Caceres leave.

“I didn’t know there was any public information out there until I heard that this morning,” Walmsley said on Thursday.

“I do know that Mike Charlesworth has been in dialogue with the City Group. Caceres has got a transfer fee built into his contract. If Mike and the head of the City Group have come to an agreement, I’ve yet to be told that’s the case.

“But if it is, what a great opportunity for Caceres to go and try and reach the potential we all think he’s got. The saddest thing was he didn’t stay around to finish his contract – if he does go – and see out his potential here and get a real big signing somewhere else.

“I’m sure whatever deal is struck, Mike will be looking after the club’s best interests.”

Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory and Western Sydney also expressed interest in signing the talented youngster, but Sky Blues coach Graham Arnold did not think the Mariners would be willing to let him play for a rival A-League side.

A-League transfer window sees signings for Melbourne City and Victory

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“I was asked if I’d like him, and I said ‘yes’,” said Arnold, who previously coached and developed Caceres at Central Coast.

“But I don’t think the Mariners would let him come to Sydney FC somehow. I think Anthony is probably one of their most-prized assets.

“Knowing Mike Charlesworth, he wants money. If they’re going to let him go anywhere, I’d say it would be for a sale. I don’t think they’d hand him over to any other A-League club.”

Caceres is reportedly one of a handful of players on the outer, after several, including Nick Fitzgerald, were dropped for the New Year’s Eve 3-1 win over Wellington.

So far this transfer window, the club have only made signings from the state league.

They were chasing former Greek striker Georgios Samaras, but decided against it due to monetary and fitness concerns.